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Akash Advocates Local Data Storage
Akash Ambani Emphasizes Local Data Storage in India
In a recent address at the IMC and ITU WTSA 2024 event, Reliance Jio Chairman Akash Ambani strongly advocated for the local data storage in India. He stressed the importance of keeping Indian users’ data within the country, emphasizing that this step is crucial for India’s digital future. Ambani called for “incentives,” including support for electricity costs, to encourage Indian companies to establish AI and machine learning data centers within the nation’s borders. The event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has also underscored the role of AI in India’s growth.
AI as a Catalyst for India’s Vision 2047
During his speech, Ambani described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool that could revolutionize various sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and manufacturing. He highlighted that local data storage in India is vital for ensuring that the benefits of AI reach every Indian. “AI is absolutely critical for realizing our dream of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” he said, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach driven by self-reliance. This vision aligns with India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, leveraging AI’s potential for growth and innovation.
Jio’s Efforts in Democratizing AI
Reliance Jio, according to Ambani, is committed to making AI accessible to all Indians, just as it democratized mobile broadband services. By promoting local data storage in India, Jio aims to ensure that powerful AI models and services are available at affordable rates. “We are committed to democratizing AI and offering powerful AI models to every Indian at affordable prices,” Ambani stated. He described AI as a revolutionary tool that will transform society, the economy, and individual lives by creating an era of efficiency and abundance.
Potential of AI in Key Sectors
Ambani detailed the role of AI in transforming sectors such as manufacturing, education, and agriculture. He noted that with AI, India has the opportunity to become a global hub for both manufacturing and services. Local data storage in India will support this transformation, ensuring that sensitive data remains secure while fostering growth. “AI in the agricultural sector can help farmers grow more with less water, leading to increased prosperity,” Ambani said. He also pointed out that AI can make quality healthcare a reality and provide enhanced learning opportunities for students across India.
Building a National AI Infrastructure
To further support the growth of AI, Jio is laying the groundwork for a national AI infrastructure. Ambani highlighted that the large volume of multilingual data generated in India will drive the AI revolution forward. However, he stressed the need for local data storage in India, urging the government to expedite the updating of the 2020 draft of the Data Centre Policy. “Indian data should remain in Indian Data Centres,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for a regulatory framework that supports data sovereignty and security.
Incentives for AI and Data Centers
Ambani called for incentives to encourage Indian companies to set up AI and machine learning data centers. He suggested that these incentives could include support for power consumption, which is crucial for running data centers. He also emphasized that local data storage in India will ensure that Indian companies are well-positioned to offer AI solutions not only domestically but also to other countries, including developed nations. “Indian mobile companies, along with the thriving ecosystem, are capable of offering solutions to the rest of the world,” Ambani added.
The Role of Talent and Employment Opportunities
Ambani emphasized the need for accelerating talent development in India to make it a global leader in AI. He highlighted that some existing jobs will evolve, while new opportunities will emerge due to the adoption of AI, similar to the digital transformation that occurred during the era of computers and the internet. “Many more exciting opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship are going to be created,” he noted, reaffirming his commitment to fostering a future where local data storage in India and AI contribute to economic growth.
India’s Digital Journey and Jio’s Role
Reflecting on India’s digital progress, Ambani highlighted the country’s journey from a 2G-speed nation to a global digital superpower, now leading the way with 5G technology. He expressed confidence in India’s potential to excel with 6G, backed by local data storage in India and a robust digital infrastructure. “From being ranked 155th in mobile broadband adoption, India has risen to become the world’s largest data market,” Ambani said. He also praised India’s achievement in digital payments, mentioning UPI as the world’s leading digital payment system.
Empowering the Unbanked and Women through Digital Inclusion
Ambani also highlighted the impact of India’s digital revolution on financial inclusion, noting that over 530 million previously unbanked Indians have been brought into the financial system through initiatives like Jan Dhan accounts. He pointed out that 300 million of these account holders are women, emphasizing the inclusivity of India’s digital story. Jio has played a significant role in this transformation, helping to connect remote areas to the digital ecosystem.
Conclusion: A Vision for India’s Digital Future
As India continues to advance in the digital age, local data storage in India remains a critical focus for Akash Ambani and Reliance Jio. With a commitment to leveraging AI and supporting national data centers, Jio aims to make India a global leader in technology and digital innovation. Ambani’s vision emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach between the government and industry, ensuring that India’s digital journey remains secure, inclusive, and transformative.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and aims to summarize statements and initiatives by Akash Ambani regarding AI and data storage in India. It does not reflect any endorsement or opinion. Readers should refer to official sources for the latest updates
